A response to Brent

[David]

When I purchased my C30, It had one of those "new fangled" pumps already installed. Seemed like the great fix, but if you think about it, that means the pump is running a minimum of 5 seconds every 2 minutes. Over time this will add up and could destroy the pump. In fact, that is exactly what happened to mine and the pump was less than 2 years old. It was a Rule (don't get me started on them--4 new pumps in less than 2 years all from mechanical failures). I think the best pump out there is the one that is monitored periodically by the owner and replaced as needed.

 

[Brent Headberg]

RE: Rule Automatic Bilge Pump

Hi David,Thanks for the input on the Rule Automatic Bilge Pump. I have never installed one of these computerized pumps, was just going by the information that a friend of mine gave me.I'm glad to get some feedback from someone who has actual experience with this new technology. I think I will keep the one I have in my 335. But I am going to add a second pump as a backup and install it higher than the primary pump for safety.Thanks again for your comments.Cap'n BrentS/V Elena Lua1991 Hunter 335

 

[Bob Todd]

I've had my Rule automatic...

...for almost four years. No problems, no glitches, no complaints.Cheers,Bob

 

[Brent Headberg]

Rule Automatic or Rule with Float?

Now I have two different opinions. Not sure what to do next.Anybody else have experience with the Rule Automatic computerized pump?

 

[Bob Todd]

The most common reason...

...for bilge pump failure is maintenance, especially ensuring that corrosion does not take its toll on the connectors and wiring. I check this at the beginning of the season just before I launch. If corrosion is present, I take care of it. Result; never had a pump of any type fail.I can't even begin to count how many people have asked what could possibly be wrong with their pumps. The answer was always the same...corrosion.An ounce of prevention?Whatever your choice, Brent, do what you feel comfortable with.Oh yeah...the reason I originally went with the Rule auto? Simple...there wasn't enough room in the bilge for a pump AND a switch nor a pump with a bilt-in switch. The Rule auto was compact enough and filled the bill.Cheers,BobLinkage to Lazybones pics below

 

[Rob R.]

Mine failed repeatedly....

I am very unhappy with the Rule Automatic, as it has a very dangerous habit of becoming air-locked when the bilge suddenly floods. As a test, I filled a bucket of water and took it below, emptying it into the bilge to see what would happen. Guess what happned? NOTHING! The pump's impellar continued to spin in an air bubble that was locked in the bottom of the pump. How unhappy was I? What would have happened if a through hull went? My boat would have been stuck in mud 40 feet under the dock, that's for sure.Anyway - I would strongly advise against these pumps - I am very unsatisified with them.Best Regards - Rob